by Duncan Kelly

Created on: December 01, 2010

Hidden Gem of the KwaZulu Natal South Coast - Ifafa Caravan Park

A mere half-hour south of Scottburgh in KwaZulu Natal is the most well kept secret of the South Coast. With a good tarred / paved road all the way to our destination, we were amazed to find Ifafa Beach Caravan Park is right on the ocean, as there is no road or railway line between the Park and the beach.

Best Tidal Pool

The cherry on top is that the access from the Park leads directly to what we believe is the best tidal pool on the entire KwaZulu Natal Coast. The tidal pool is safe for small children as it has a sand approach and at high tide the waves come over the rear wall to the delight of the teenagers, but only small waves at the front for the toddlers to enjoy.

Rock Pools and Restaurants

Either side of the pool are shallow rock pools populated with tiny fish. North and south of the rock pools, are sand beaches for surf fishing; and if you catch nothing, you can eat at Johnno's Restaurant in the Park. Johnno's has a first class menu at reasonable prices. The food is wonderful and there is also a take-away option at the Park Superette. The superette sells most shop items, as well as charcoal, wood, ice and bait.

Pools and games

There are 2 freshwater pools (One for toddlers) trampolines, a volley-ball court, swings, jungle gym and a see-saw. There is also a small games room with a mini pool table. The sites are all neatly divided with hedges to give privacy and avoid spill-overs from neighbours.

WCs by the Sea

The family ablution block is clean and has a wc, bath and shower per bathroom. The gardens are well kept and the sites well grassed. The park also has a small Laundromat. It is a very safe area, but there is security at night and the 2 gates are locked. The only problem we encountered was a lack of shade, as many of the trees are still small. The shaded sites under the large trees are snapped up in the summer months. Once the younger trees gain some height, this problem will be solved.

Thirsty ?

The pub in Johnno's has a large screen for the rugby and other sport fixtures, so no need to rush off home. Most campers are loathe to say goodbye. Paradise, once found, is not easy to leave!

If you are not a camper, don't despair. You can go down to Ifafa Beach for a Sunday afternoon drive, a swim and a fantastic lunch. You won't regret the decision!

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